The region’s top cultural attractions are to be found in Dubrovnik and Split, both of which are home to UNESCO-listed fortified old towns, free of cars and packed with centuries-old stone buildings, monumental churches and several worthwhile museums and galleries. Note that many museums are closed on Mondays, and more and more are staying open in the evenings during summer, so you can see an exhibition before dinner, after a day by the sea. On the islands, Hvar Town and Korčula Town are the most impressive settlements in terms of architecture and historic attractions.

Dalmatia’s beaches are mainly pebbly, which has its advantages – no sand in your eyes and ears, and excellent visibility for snorkelling. If you have sensitive feet, invest in a pair of rubber beach shoes and a roll-up beach mat to put under your towel. The more commercial beaches are maintained from May through to September and some have sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, usually from a beach bar.

How I’ve picked my things to do:

It was not easy to select just 30 things to do as Dalmatia is so rich in cultural attractions, dramatic landscapes and adventure sports activities. What I’ve come up with is a ‘best of’ in an attempt to cover a decent range with something to appeal to everyone.

Several lesser known attractions have also made it into my top 30 – places that reflect contemporary culture in the region, such as the Gallery of Fine Arts in Split and War Photo Limited in Dubrovnik.

Beaches of course get a showing here and I’ve chosen 10, ranging from chi-chi beach clubs in Dubrovnik and Hvar, to family beaches on Korcula and Brač, and isolated nudist beaches on the tiny islands of Lopud and Proizd.

It was not easy to select just 30 things to do as Dalmatia is so rich in cultural attractions, dramatic landscapes and adventure sports activities. What I’ve come up with is a ‘best of’ in an attempt to cover a decent range with something to appeal to everyone.

Several lesser known attractions have also made it into my top 30 – places that reflect contemporary culture in the region, such as the Gallery of Fine Arts in Split and War Photo Limited in Dubrovnik.

Beaches of course get a showing here and I’ve chosen 10, ranging from chi-chi beach clubs in Dubrovnik and Hvar, to family beaches on Korcula and Brač, and isolated nudist beaches on the tiny islands of Lopud and Proizd.